Playing by Ear Doesn’t Mean Fumbling for the Notes

At Improvise for Real, everyone learns how to play music by ear. But what does this really mean? Many people use the term “playing by ear” to refer to someone who doesn’t really understand music. But what we’re talking about is just the opposite. Playing by ear is the highest form of musical understanding there is.

It means being able to listen to any song and instantly know how to play it in any key on your instrument. It’s not about guessing or fumbling for the notes. It’s about having a deep understanding of harmony that is actually connected to your ear. If this is what you want, you should join us!

"The IFR method is explained so clearly—it's logical, easy to understand, and taught in such a stimulating environment with great teachers and beautiful backing tracks to improvise with."

Annemarie PostSaxophone — Amsterdam, Netherlands

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"You can take the smallest bite out of this method and gain the nourishment to feed your musical quest for weeks at a time."

Michael SokolowskiPiano — Charlottesville, Virginia, USA

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"I was a frustrated sheet-music-playing piano student before IFR. Now, the world of music has opened up to me."

Karen YatesPiano — Austin, TX, USA

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“IFR has become my favorite method and the one I practice most. I recommend it enormously to all musicians who want to take their improvising farther.”